I love my life. I love my job. I love my family. With that being said, allow me to vent a smidge, if you will.
The day started off magnificently with a workout, Day 2 of the Couch-to-5-k program. And best of all, I got to run with my best friend! The temperature was perfect. It just felt good. After completing our exercise, I came home and fixed breakfast as usual for my amazing hubby. The knucklehead wasn't awake yet, but that was fine by me since he just did not want to sleep last night.
He woke up around 7:45 (which is about an hour of sleeping in for him!) He seemed to be in a fine mood. I've noticed his nose has been a bit more drippy lately and originally thought it was just allergies. Today, my opinion changed and I realized another of his 2-year molars is rearing it's ugly head because he started drooling like a Bloodhound! But overall, our day was pleasant.
We played outside, went shopping, played with flashcards. We read and shot hoops. Everything was just ducky! Until about 5:30. We were all eating dinner. He was eating well and seemed content. Then he acted as if his entire world just blew up in front of him. I swear, this kid was just carrying on as if tomorrow would never come! He's not generally a bratty child, so truth be told, we don't know what to do with him when he turns into a little pistol. We tried asking him to show us what he wanted. We picked him up. We put him down. Nothing sated this kiddo.
My husband finally put him in time-out. That didn't do much either. I tried putting medicine on his little raw nose. I tried giving him teething gel. I tried giving him milk. Everything worked for about two seconds. Then he fell apart all over again. I finally decided to give him a bath and he magically turned back into my sweet son. It was still pretty early, so I was just going to put his lotion and PJs on, then let him play a bit longer. I thought I'd rock him for a minute, though, if he'd let me. There's just something so sweet about a freshly washed kid snuggling up.
Less than five minutes later, he was fast asleep and actually transferred to his crib without even opening his eyes. I cannot believe he was that exhausted! I don't know what triggered it, but all I can figure is that he must not have felt well in some capacity. But I have to admit, it's really frustrating to have a child old enough to have opinions, and consequently tantrums, but unable or unwilling to let me know what's wrong. I think hubby and I were both ready to pull our hair out.
I know my brother keeps telling me not to rush him to talk (you know, because once they start, they NEVER stop!?!) But tonight, it would have been so much easier if he could have somehow communicated what was going on in his crazy head or crazy body. *sigh*
But for now, he sleeps. And if God's mercies with me can be new every morning, I'm pretty sure I can show my son new mercy with the dawn. (But, I'm not God. So, we'll see...)
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
Great Companion
At my husband's suggestion, my son and I decided to enjoy this gorgeous day by wandering around downtown Kansas City. Lino thought Jackson would enjoy the people and overall stimulation that comes with being in a metropolitan part of town. He was so right!
We got there around 2 pm and easily found parking. I put him in the stroller and we began walking around. I pointed up to the really high buildings. He sat in his stroller with his arms out feeling the breeze. Then he tucked them so that his elbows were pointing out and began to dance in his seat! I think he was dancing to the rhythm and music of the city. He watched the joggers go by. He waved at the people dining on restaurant patios. He gave high fives and great big smiles to the people at the bus stop. One person at the bus stop asked me if he was 3, almost 4. I just laughed and said, "Nope; he just turned 2 two weeks ago!"
We went into a local coffee shop, in part for a drink, in part for parking validation. I had an excellent iced chai. He kept flashing the lady behind the counter a huge, dimpled grin. She asked if he was allowed to have sweets. I said yes, so she gave him a chocolate chunk cookie. He lit up at that! He leaned in as if to hug her, so she came around the counter. I let him out of the stroller at that point, since we were safely contained in the coffee shop. There was music in the background and as soon as he noticed it, his little booty started wiggling and shaking! They got a big kick out of him in there. He was passing out high fives, blown kisses, and big hugs like they were, well, free, which they were. We lingered in there a while, then headed back out.
He didn't seem to be interested in riding in the stroller, so I strapped his bearhug (aka leash) on and walked back out into the sunshine. He promptly saw three ladies standing on the sidewalk outside another establishment and decided they needed hugging, too. We then headed back home.
He was a delightful companion to spend an afternoon with in downtown KC. I used to work close to downtown and often ran down there. So it felt like heading back to my old stomping grounds. We were both invigorated by our time in the city. And I think he spread some love and sunshine around downtown KC, even more than the sun that was already shining today.
We got there around 2 pm and easily found parking. I put him in the stroller and we began walking around. I pointed up to the really high buildings. He sat in his stroller with his arms out feeling the breeze. Then he tucked them so that his elbows were pointing out and began to dance in his seat! I think he was dancing to the rhythm and music of the city. He watched the joggers go by. He waved at the people dining on restaurant patios. He gave high fives and great big smiles to the people at the bus stop. One person at the bus stop asked me if he was 3, almost 4. I just laughed and said, "Nope; he just turned 2 two weeks ago!"
We went into a local coffee shop, in part for a drink, in part for parking validation. I had an excellent iced chai. He kept flashing the lady behind the counter a huge, dimpled grin. She asked if he was allowed to have sweets. I said yes, so she gave him a chocolate chunk cookie. He lit up at that! He leaned in as if to hug her, so she came around the counter. I let him out of the stroller at that point, since we were safely contained in the coffee shop. There was music in the background and as soon as he noticed it, his little booty started wiggling and shaking! They got a big kick out of him in there. He was passing out high fives, blown kisses, and big hugs like they were, well, free, which they were. We lingered in there a while, then headed back out.
He didn't seem to be interested in riding in the stroller, so I strapped his bearhug (aka leash) on and walked back out into the sunshine. He promptly saw three ladies standing on the sidewalk outside another establishment and decided they needed hugging, too. We then headed back home.
He was a delightful companion to spend an afternoon with in downtown KC. I used to work close to downtown and often ran down there. So it felt like heading back to my old stomping grounds. We were both invigorated by our time in the city. And I think he spread some love and sunshine around downtown KC, even more than the sun that was already shining today.
Monday, May 7, 2012
Day 1 of Resuming Exercise
Well, I did the first day of the training regimen for my 5k in a couple of months. I am a touch sore, now that I've sat down for a bit. But I'm excited to say that I'm not in nearly as bad of shape as I anticipated! I didn't struggle at all during the workout. And I was tempted to push it a little longer, farther, and harder. But I read the warnings against it and am going to be patient and stick with the program. Just because today was easy doesn't mean there isn't a day coming that's going to kick my hiney.
But I was really encouraged by how good it felt. Every time I start exercising, I wonder why I ever quit in the first place. I never have a good and justifiable reason. I enjoyed the run. But I will admit, it felt really strange when I started out. I don't remember the last time I went on a walk, especially around our neighborhood, without my son. So it was very bizarre to set out sans stroller and toddler. I actually felt like I was missing or forgot something!
But it was also very pleasant and rejuvenating to embrace some time in the great outdoors by myself. I don't think my son or husband were complaining, though. They were enjoying time in the front yard, swinging golf clubs, throwing footballs and softballs, and doing who knows whatever fathers and sons do. I love that they enjoy their time together so much.
But I was really encouraged by how good it felt. Every time I start exercising, I wonder why I ever quit in the first place. I never have a good and justifiable reason. I enjoyed the run. But I will admit, it felt really strange when I started out. I don't remember the last time I went on a walk, especially around our neighborhood, without my son. So it was very bizarre to set out sans stroller and toddler. I actually felt like I was missing or forgot something!
But it was also very pleasant and rejuvenating to embrace some time in the great outdoors by myself. I don't think my son or husband were complaining, though. They were enjoying time in the front yard, swinging golf clubs, throwing footballs and softballs, and doing who knows whatever fathers and sons do. I love that they enjoy their time together so much.
Sunday, May 6, 2012
Two Hot Dates in Two Nights!
To any parent who thinks dates with their spouse are unimportant, let me encourage you otherwise! This past Friday evening, I went with my handsome hubby to see "The Avengers" along with another couple. We had a wonderful time and really enjoyed the movie, as well as dinner afterwards. The movie was just fun and fantastic. Yes, part of the evening was sitting side by side in a theater. But even that was wonderful. Having the opportunity to sit with my head on his chest or even holding his hand without the concern of "did I hear the child" or getting interrupted by said child was precious. Having something new that we shared and something new to talk about is always good. The food and overall company was great.
And dates don't have to be expensive. Whether it's going to a driving range, bowling, or a picnic in the park or just dressing up for a free concert around town, getting away from the house and getting out together is so important. I know many people think home date nights are wonderful, too. And I don't disagree. Any time spent together is healthy and important. But for me, at least, it's so nice to be able to turn off the "to-do list" part of my brain. If I'm not at home, I don't pay attention to if there are dishes or laundry to be done. I don't get distracted by the "oh, I need to make sure I run that errand or do this tomorrow." I don't decide to watch tv or do something equally mind-numbing and alone.
Not to mention, it's just awesome to be able to pay attention to my husband and feel that same undivided attention from him. It's great to be able to get dolled up (even if it's just jeans) and feel pretty.
But as wonderful as one-on-one spouse time is, one-on-one time with the kiddo or kiddos is important as well. So after my hot date Friday night, I had a date night with my adorable son. Or should I say, "date knight," sponsored by Chik-Fil-A. They had the cow, who was wearing a knight hood, along with a man dressed as a knight, a free photo booth, and a free cookie sundae for each of us! All we had to buy was dinner, which was just fine by me! They also had a shield for him to color, a beautiful and fragrant red carnation they gave him to give me, and talking points for good conversations between mothers and sons. (That night was mother-son; next month, their hosting father-daughter.)
As silly as it may sound, as I looked across the table at my son sitting across from me, instead of beside me, I welled up with tears. I know I have my son with me all day every day. But there was something so sweet and special and the mindset of knowing it was a "date." I look forward to using those ideas and talking points with my son when he's a little older. And I have photographs of our first date together. I'll put them next to the photograph I have of Lino and I's first post-child date.
I have two special guys. And I have had an incredible weekend, enjoying one-on-one time with each of them. I am a blessed, blessed woman.
And dates don't have to be expensive. Whether it's going to a driving range, bowling, or a picnic in the park or just dressing up for a free concert around town, getting away from the house and getting out together is so important. I know many people think home date nights are wonderful, too. And I don't disagree. Any time spent together is healthy and important. But for me, at least, it's so nice to be able to turn off the "to-do list" part of my brain. If I'm not at home, I don't pay attention to if there are dishes or laundry to be done. I don't get distracted by the "oh, I need to make sure I run that errand or do this tomorrow." I don't decide to watch tv or do something equally mind-numbing and alone.
Not to mention, it's just awesome to be able to pay attention to my husband and feel that same undivided attention from him. It's great to be able to get dolled up (even if it's just jeans) and feel pretty.
But as wonderful as one-on-one spouse time is, one-on-one time with the kiddo or kiddos is important as well. So after my hot date Friday night, I had a date night with my adorable son. Or should I say, "date knight," sponsored by Chik-Fil-A. They had the cow, who was wearing a knight hood, along with a man dressed as a knight, a free photo booth, and a free cookie sundae for each of us! All we had to buy was dinner, which was just fine by me! They also had a shield for him to color, a beautiful and fragrant red carnation they gave him to give me, and talking points for good conversations between mothers and sons. (That night was mother-son; next month, their hosting father-daughter.)
As silly as it may sound, as I looked across the table at my son sitting across from me, instead of beside me, I welled up with tears. I know I have my son with me all day every day. But there was something so sweet and special and the mindset of knowing it was a "date." I look forward to using those ideas and talking points with my son when he's a little older. And I have photographs of our first date together. I'll put them next to the photograph I have of Lino and I's first post-child date.
I have two special guys. And I have had an incredible weekend, enjoying one-on-one time with each of them. I am a blessed, blessed woman.
Thursday, May 3, 2012
Busy!
We had a ridiculously busy day today! We painted, played in mud, had therapy, played at the park, napped, did laundry (well, I did,) vacuumed (he helped,) and made dinner. Oh, and washed dishes. Oh, and...
Ok, so that's all we did today. But it still seemed busy. And fantastic. We had a great time today. I'm hoping to make my life busier than it already is. I signed up for a 5k run. I haven't run in, well, a really long time. But I enjoyed it when I did. And I'm badly out of shape. So committing to something is just the ticket for me. Plus it's not an unreasonable distance.
Now I just have to figure out time to start running. I shudder at the thought of setting the alarm to do it before my guys wake up. But I also am not a huge fan of actually trying to get a good run in while using the stroller and worrying about the little guy. Nor do I really want to wait until I'm tired from the day and do it after the kid's in bed. And I can't exactly leave the knucklehead unattended.
So...I guess the alarm's going to start seeing some use. But tomorrow's Friday and that just seems ridiculous to start training on a Friday. Yeah, I'm gonna give myself three extra days of sleep and start on Monday. Plus it'll give me time to buy running shorts. And by "running shorts," I don't mean those skimpy ones that you wear when you have killer gams from running for the past twenty years. I mean long shorts that cover my less than fabulous thighs but that are more comfortable than running in jeans.
Look for an exciting (or exhausted) update on Monday as to how the run went. And say a little prayer for me!
Ok, so that's all we did today. But it still seemed busy. And fantastic. We had a great time today. I'm hoping to make my life busier than it already is. I signed up for a 5k run. I haven't run in, well, a really long time. But I enjoyed it when I did. And I'm badly out of shape. So committing to something is just the ticket for me. Plus it's not an unreasonable distance.
Now I just have to figure out time to start running. I shudder at the thought of setting the alarm to do it before my guys wake up. But I also am not a huge fan of actually trying to get a good run in while using the stroller and worrying about the little guy. Nor do I really want to wait until I'm tired from the day and do it after the kid's in bed. And I can't exactly leave the knucklehead unattended.
So...I guess the alarm's going to start seeing some use. But tomorrow's Friday and that just seems ridiculous to start training on a Friday. Yeah, I'm gonna give myself three extra days of sleep and start on Monday. Plus it'll give me time to buy running shorts. And by "running shorts," I don't mean those skimpy ones that you wear when you have killer gams from running for the past twenty years. I mean long shorts that cover my less than fabulous thighs but that are more comfortable than running in jeans.
Look for an exciting (or exhausted) update on Monday as to how the run went. And say a little prayer for me!
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
My Squirrely Squirrel
This kid cracks me up! This morning, we are sitting in the den, enjoying our breakfasts and playing. He decides to wander off, which isn't unusual. I think he's going to do his standard walk to the end of the dining room, then come run at me full force. After a minute of silence (which is seldom a good thing) I go check on him. He's sitting quietly on the couch in the living room. Not doing anything. Just sitting. I smile at him and tell him he's fine to be there. No biggie, right?
I walk away, curious about what is going through his head. A couple of minutes later, I hear him talking to himself. So I go peek again. Yeah, he's no longer sitting quietly. He's removed the couch cushion and is jumping and walking around on the couch sans pillows. I don't know why. But he seems to think it's pretty darn fun. And funny. He's just cackling away as if he's as funny as...well, I don't know. But a funny guy!
I walk away with a smile, only to be followed back into the den, greeted with a grin and open arms begging to be picked up and hugged! He has his trying moments (like the fit he threw earlier this morning for no particular discernible reason.) But everyone should have, or at least periodically borrow, one of these! He's such an ego boost! I mean, it's pretty hard to have an extended bad mood with this knucklehead around. If he has one gift, one talent in life, he makes people feel loved.
I should definitely take some lessons from my squirrely squirrel.
I walk away, curious about what is going through his head. A couple of minutes later, I hear him talking to himself. So I go peek again. Yeah, he's no longer sitting quietly. He's removed the couch cushion and is jumping and walking around on the couch sans pillows. I don't know why. But he seems to think it's pretty darn fun. And funny. He's just cackling away as if he's as funny as...well, I don't know. But a funny guy!
I walk away with a smile, only to be followed back into the den, greeted with a grin and open arms begging to be picked up and hugged! He has his trying moments (like the fit he threw earlier this morning for no particular discernible reason.) But everyone should have, or at least periodically borrow, one of these! He's such an ego boost! I mean, it's pretty hard to have an extended bad mood with this knucklehead around. If he has one gift, one talent in life, he makes people feel loved.
I should definitely take some lessons from my squirrely squirrel.
Sunday, April 29, 2012
Apologies For My Absence
My sincerest apologies for my silence over the past week. I was busy cleaning house in preparation for family to come visit. Then I was busy enjoying them being here. Then I was busy preparing for and enjoying my son's birthday party. Today, I just enjoyed breathing.
Here's a recap of the past week's events. My husband's mom, sis, and niece visited us from Southern California. I really enjoyed having them here. We had a great time just visiting and relaxing together. We drove around and saw different parts of the metro Kansas City area, showed them where he works, and took them for, what else, barbecue! I went with his mom and sis to a casino a couple of times. That was a lot of fun!
Jackson's birthday party was Saturday afternoon at a local park. It rained on Friday, it rained on Sunday. But Saturday was very pleasant, weather-wise. It was a little chilly but not too bad. The cake was delicious and absolutely beautiful. The company was delightful. The pintata was fun. And the look of sheer joy on his face when everyone sang "Happy Birthday" to him was priceless.
Today, we spent the day at home as a quiet family. We did a little less than nothing and it was great. I eventually changed from pajamas to yoga pants and a long-sleeved T-shirt (which is basically pajamas I can go out in public wearing.) We just hung out together, played, talked, took a walk, and enjoyed one another.
This next week, I will post some pictures of the party on Facebook. I also promise to be more diligent in writing. I have no doubt my two-year-old (which is so strange to type) will give me plenty of fodder!
Here's a recap of the past week's events. My husband's mom, sis, and niece visited us from Southern California. I really enjoyed having them here. We had a great time just visiting and relaxing together. We drove around and saw different parts of the metro Kansas City area, showed them where he works, and took them for, what else, barbecue! I went with his mom and sis to a casino a couple of times. That was a lot of fun!
Jackson's birthday party was Saturday afternoon at a local park. It rained on Friday, it rained on Sunday. But Saturday was very pleasant, weather-wise. It was a little chilly but not too bad. The cake was delicious and absolutely beautiful. The company was delightful. The pintata was fun. And the look of sheer joy on his face when everyone sang "Happy Birthday" to him was priceless.
Today, we spent the day at home as a quiet family. We did a little less than nothing and it was great. I eventually changed from pajamas to yoga pants and a long-sleeved T-shirt (which is basically pajamas I can go out in public wearing.) We just hung out together, played, talked, took a walk, and enjoyed one another.
This next week, I will post some pictures of the party on Facebook. I also promise to be more diligent in writing. I have no doubt my two-year-old (which is so strange to type) will give me plenty of fodder!
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